Baseline

September 5, 2025
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What is a Baseline?

A baseline is a fixed reference point that project managers use to measure and compare a project’s performance over time. It typically includes the original approved scope, schedule, and cost of a project. Once project managers establish it, it serves as the standard against which they track actual progress. Any significant changes to this reference point must go through formal change control processes. The goal of having a baseline is to ensure the project stays aligned with its objectives and provides a clear framework for managing deviations.

A baseline is usually set during the planning phase and remains unchanged unless formally revised. It helps project managers and stakeholders evaluate whether the project is on track, ahead of schedule, or behind schedule in terms of time, cost, and deliverables. Without a baseline, it becomes challenging to accurately assess project performance or hold teams accountable for their outcomes.

Key Points

  • It consists of three key components: scope, time (or schedule), and cost.
  • It provides a foundation for performance measurement and project control.
  • Establishing it requires formal approval from stakeholders.
  • Updates to it should follow a structured change management process.
  • Its effective use supports more accurate forecasting and effective risk management.

Related Terms

  • A project scope defines what a project includes and excludes, and it forms part of the baseline.
  • The team compares a project schedule to the time baseline to outline when tasks and milestones are expected to occur.
  • Use a cost estimate to set the financial component of the baseline and manage budget performance.
  • Change control is the process used to modify the baseline when project adjustments are needed.
  • A performance measurement baseline combines scope, schedule, and cost baselines for integrated tracking and management.

Baseline: Example

A construction company sets a baseline for a new office building project, which includes completing the structure in 12 months for $2 million. The approved project scope details the number of floors and design specifications. As the project progresses, the manager compares actual timelines and spending against this original plan. When a delay due to weather pushes the schedule by two weeks, the team uses formal change control to update the schedule portion of the original plan.

Baseline: Best Practices

  • Define and document the scope, schedule, and cost clearly before setting the baseline.
  • Obtain approval from key stakeholders to officially establish the baseline.
  • Use project management software to monitor and compare real-time data against the baseline.
  • Communicate its changes transparently through proper channels.
  • Review its performance regularly to identify trends and make informed decisions.

Additional Resources

Baseline - A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide)     Baseline - Contemporary Project Management

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